By Omar Bah
Dr. Lamin Keita, a Gambian living in Indiana, United States, has called upon fellow Gambians to reflect on the nation’s challenging journey as it marks the 60th Anniversary of its Diamond Jubilee.
In an exclusive interview with The Standard, Dr. Keita highlighted that this milestone serves as a celebration and an opportunity to contemplate the struggles faced over the past six decades. “This anniversary urges us to acknowledge the sacrifices, progress, and the challenges that still lie ahead for our country. As we commemorate this Diamond Jubilee, we must recognize how far we have come and what independence truly means for future generations,” he remarked.
He pointed out that reflecting on the nation’s history reveals a rich tapestry woven with struggle and resilience. “The sacrifices made by our founding fathers, from Edward Francis Small to Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, among others, have established the foundation for the democratic principles we cherish today. Their bravery serves as a poignant reminder that independence is not merely a historic date, but an ongoing commitment to uphold justice, equality, and human rights for every citizen.”
Dr. Keita further stated, “In addition to honoring our past, this anniversary provides us the chance to celebrate significant achievements that have contributed to our nation’s development. From strides in education and healthcare to economic growth and technological innovation, each milestone reflects our collective efforts toward building a prosperous society. These successes should instill pride and motivate our pursuit of excellence in every sector.”
However, he cautioned, “While we celebrate these significant accomplishments, we must also recognize and confront ongoing challenges such as poverty, inequality, and the absence of a representative Constitution that establishes a two-term limit for all future political leaders of The Gambia. The Diamond Jubilee acts as a call to action, urging citizens and leaders to address these issues with renewed determination. By reflecting on our successes and struggles, we can cultivate unity and collaborate towards sustainable development.”
In reflecting on The Gambia’s 60 years of independence, Dr. Keita remarked, “This period provides valuable insights into our identity as a nation capable of thriving even in exceptional circumstances, as demonstrated during the past 22 years of Jammeh’s rule. We must remember that freedom is a responsibility to one another and future generations. Thus, as we commemorate this Diamond Jubilee, our leaders and citizens must commit to fostering an inclusive society where everyone can flourish in peace and prosperity.”
